Our reading challenge for the day is Ecclesiastes 1-4. I’ll hit a few highlights. You make comments too and fill in the gaps. What strikes you as specially significant?
The author of Ecclesiastes is often identified as Solomon, king of Israel, possibly in his old age. While it is uncertain, it is definitely plausible. Sometimes people look at this text as the ramblings of a disillusioned person. I can see him as disillusioned in a positive sense - one who has seen a lot of illusory life and realized its true nature. Look rather to God and His perfect Law which brings true wisdom.
Ecclesiastes 1 - Our work, including our attempts at innovation, is not something we should take too seriously. It will make a difference but genuine world-changing responsibility belongs to God alone.
Ecclesiastes 2 - In our lives we may have opportunity to possess much or little. What we have or don’t have, or even the wisdom or lack of wisdom we may have, is not what brings fulfillment. What we really need is something permanent, which is only God’s grace.
Ecclesiastes 3 - Our lives are full of different seasons, each with its appropriate characteristics. Again, God is the ruler over all.
Ecclesiastes 4 - Life is full of sorrow and hardship. Yet in the midst of it all God’s blessing emerges.
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